#and learned about the culture to get closer to her memory

[thelesbianthespianposts]

Luke skywalker would not perform Nabooian rituals

Leia Organa would not perform Nabooian rituals

neither of them were born on naboo. Neither of them were raised with Nabooian culture. Why is it so hard to see people representing their upbringing as it was.

Show Luke making a recipe he learned from Beru, or Leia knowing a lot about alderaanian history. Something like that

[spacebarbarianweird]

Astarion with Wood Elf!Tav headcanons, pls?

I decided to stick to the prompt and write about Wood Elves as promised, but let me know in the requests if you want Wild Elf!Tav as well!

Astarion x Wood Elf!Tav

Masterlist

Headcanons

TW: a mention of suicide and PTSD

As a Wood Elf, you grew up deep in the woods in one of the many hidden villages of your people.

Since childhood, you learned to trust humans and dwarves and know how to survive in the forests.

You are good with animals and have your own familiar - a lynx called Mould (because of her weird patterns on the fur).

When you were sixteen, your woods were destroyed by orcs. You survived by hiding high in the trees, afraid of going down.

From now on, your path is the path of revenge.

To orcs, who destroyed your home. To humans who sicced them and solved the issues with Elves with their dirty hands. To dwarves who refused to help.

And to High Elves who didn't help a young orphan

You kill. You destroy. You are cruel and violent like a drow, not a Wood Elf.

Your rage and your blindness are used by the wrong people.

Your bow and your arrows become a weapon of destruction.

You leave a blood trace wherever you go.

Until you are kidnapped by mindflayers.

You aren't afraid. You want to die. You just wait until the cruel will of the Illithyds turns you into something monstrous.

But it doesn't happen. The tadpole blocks some of your most unpleasant memories and suppresses the bloodlust and disgust.

You've never felt so good!

As a leader, you gather your small company to get to Baldur's Gate.

You feel something is off with Astarion - Wood Elves have a good intuition concerning the Undead.

You feel compassion - you also left a trace of blood. You allow him to feed on you, and with every day you get closer.

He reconnects with the Elven culture through you, though Sylvan Elves and Moon Elves are different.

You braid his short hair and adorn it with little pieces of jewelry the same way men of your kin did.

On the other hand, he tells you about history and geography things that aren't known to isolated Or-tel-quessir.

You help Astarion to heal, and you feel like something is healing inside you. Your past, your sorrows.

But the moment the tadpole disappears...

It is all back.

The blood on your hands. The cries of your victims.

You want to die.

While the streets of Baldur's Gate are festive, you walk like a ghost.

You don't deserve to live. Not after everything you've done.

You want to end it all. You find a solitary place where no one will ever find you, and you take a dagger.

You faint as the blood leaves your body, and you feel like death lulls you to forever sleep.

You hope that your soul is too corrupt to be reincarnated.

But-

You wake up.

Alive.

Astarion has saved you.

He found you by the smell of blood and managed to find help before it was too late.

You remember his desperate cry for help, his attempts to stop the blood loss.

As you recover, he takes care of you. He spoon-feeds you, changes the bandages, and never ever says anything about your suicide attempt.

He knows why you did it. And he won't allow you to do that ever again.

Together, you leave the city and go into the wilderness.

You help each other heal. Astarion soothes your mental pain, and you help him with nightmares.

You have a few more attempts to off yourself, but Astarion always finds words to stop you.

With years, it gets easier. You redeemed yourself in your own eyes by helping people. You found the strength to keep living.

As for Astarion, he comes to terms with your mortality.

You will live for centuries, and you have a lot of time together. 

And you will return. You will reincarnate and, if he is still alive, you shall meet again.

A century post-game, you find yourself in the familiar woods.

You know this place.

It is your destroyed home.

You cry and grieve while Astarion holds you, not letting you fall into the dark abyss of your sorrows.

He helps you build a small shrine, a reminder about people who used to live there.

And you feel good. You feel free.

Astarion suggests going to see more of this world. Other continents, maybe, other planes.

And you agree. You leave your past and go into the future with your Thiramin, once and forever love.

--

Tag list

@tugoslovenka @marcynomercy @wintersire @vixstarria @not-so-lost-after-all @ashiro20 @theearthsfinalconfession @herstxrgirl @starlight-ipomoea @micropoe10 @astarion-imagine-archive @veillsar @elora-the-slutty-songstress @fayeriess @lumienyx @astarion-beloved @tallymonster @caitlincat-95 @tragedybunny @valeprati

[demaparbat-hp]

I can definitely see a version of katara, a couple years after sokka goes off with their dad, watching her tribe struggle for resources, first being overjoyed to welcome this air nomad, somebody around her age and also trying to save whats left of their culture in the fire nation’s wake, and then so betrayed when he’s (in her eyes) suddenly the reason they’ve all been suffering for so long, the reason she doesn’t know whether her brother and father are alive or not.

And then zuko coming along, not only with a tangible plan to stop the war and help her family, but also a way *out*. She loves her tribe and would do anything for them, but she’s also a teenager that feels so angry, so alone and helpless, and can only see a future where she lives and dies on this small patch of ice, feeling the pull of the moon but being too busy, too tired, too ignorant to heed its call. Of course its the scariest thing she’s ever done. I bet she deals with nightmares after the righteousness wears off and it sinks in what shes signed up for, the last waterbender of the southern water tribe on a metal fire nation boat. But if katara does anything its buckle down and commit.

I would love to know how zuko even gets into a position to have a conversation with katara and tell her his plan. What is their first meeting like, to not only divulge that, but want her on his crew? Do the two of them do their best to teach her waterbending; does uncle iroh help? I can only imagine watching katara struggle but keep on getting up to try the forms again and again brings back some of his own memories learning bending (i love your art, i love all the details about this au and all the others youve dropped, thank you for sharing even when people are dicks)

You have put this into words much better than I ever could. Her journey, her development and what drove her to make the decision to leave it all behind.

Zuko is a different person in this AU, and has had different experiences. He respects their village's boundaries, and comes in a small ship with two unmasked members of his crew, a man and a woman. He introduces himself in the way of the Water Tribe (I am Zuko, son of Ursa—no father, only his mother's name when it should have come last), and asks for permission to stay in their lands as his ship is repaired. Away from the village, where their presence wouldn't be a burden or a threat, and they could be easily forgotten or watched.

Katara is the only person to look him directly in the eye and, when she goes to where his ship is docked late at night and threatens to end his life if he so much as lights a fire in the direction of the village, he doesn't dismiss her fury or her capabilities. He smiles instead, eyes old and tired. I can end you, right here, right now, she says. I know, he answers. I know.

Days pass, Aang has been making himself scarce and the Prince has kept to his word. He doesn't ask for anything, he isn't seen unless someone from the village goes to stand watch, and he looks at her with something akin to respect.

Then, a few days after his arrival, Zuko asks for an audience with the village's mathriach and her family. He isn't surprised when Katara is there, and he addresses her directly, as if her opinion is something to value.

He hasn't been entirely honest, he says, with the countenance of someone about to play it all in a move that could earn him either victory or defeat. His ship needed repairs and he was closer to their shores than Earth Kingdom land, this is true. But it was so because the person he was chasing after had damaged his ship and, according to maps and calculations and sheer dumb luck, the only place they could have run to was here, in the Southern Water Tribe.

But why would he chase someone like that?

To return home. To earn back the rights to challenge his father for the throne, and end the war.

Why do such a thing?

For his mother. For his sister and uncle. For the world.

Why tell them this?

Because they had a right to know, since the person he was after was right here, right now.

Who?

The Avatar.

Who?

The airbender.

(Later, after Aang abandoned them again, Katara approached the Prince and offered herself to him. She knew the Avatar, she said. She was a waterbender and could help them in the seas. She was the Sea Wolf's daughter, and could ensure an alliance. She needed a way out. He accepted.)

[bycaprinae]

I was watching Reel james interview with Aaron and there he pointed out that in the scene where we learn about Aaravos' prision, there's actually a giant corpse burried there. It was a hidden element and apparently important to the story, enough to be connected to Aditi being "swalloed" but not in the way we might think! I feel like we might know who that corpse belonged to, so I'd like to connect the dots and present to you all my theory.

Being straight foward, who do i think that corpse belongs to? Leola. Why? And why that matters? I'll present my case:

I think that the Startouches are Gods that created the world of Xadia, both human, dragons and elves. Aaravos and Leola were close to one another (as friends, family or lovers?), but Leola was the first one out of the two to pity the humans. Leola cared for humanity and Aaravos cared about Leola. Leola then decides to help the humans, maybe she tried to act under the radar and disguised herself as a unicorn, so the others Startouches wouldn't find out about this, as the humans were MEANT to be weak and suffer.

But soon after, they find out that Leola gave humanity magic, and decided to punish her for it, leading to her death? And because Aaravos was close to her, but not the one that defied their plans, he was spared by the others, but casted out to the world of Xadia, unable to go back to his people, and stripped away from his original status and power. Filled with bitterness, he plotted his revenge, to undo and destroy all of the other Startouches creation from inside out, by the hands of humanity, the ones that Leola pitied, the ones that the others despised, and in the process he got closer to humanity, learned their culture, their ways of doing things, he learned the love that Leola held for those creatures. She was prometheus and he was Lucifer!

If it wasn't obvious, I think the Startouch can shapeshift, I think they're actually massive beings, and both the skelleton and the statues are actually their original sizes!

Some of it is just pure headcanons because I don't have strong evidences, but here is what I do have:

Recently we learned from Aaron that the Startouch elf we see in the opening is actually named Leola!

It came as a surprise because Leola was also described as a unicorn, but not just any unicorn, the very one that gifted humans with primal magic. This is information comes from Tales of Xadia Handbook:

And when I read that tweet from Aaron, I immediately went to check that info on Leola, because I never actually read the handbook, and I was puzzled when I found a screenshot of that text and also the information on the wiki about unicorns, because in both wiki and the handbook is only written that "the elves" warned the unicorns, but WHICH elves? I distincly had the memory of it being the FIRST elves (aka, Startouch Elves), and then today I remembered where that info came from!! Is from book one: moon prologue!

Previously I theorized that "Ripples" is not a story about how humans came to wield Dark magic, but actually a story BEFORE they even learn that. The reason for that is the choice of words used to describe the magic.

"Precious primal flames" "undeserved power", such words used to describe what they had and what was destroyed. And then there's the implication that Aaravos' plan was to have the destruction of the Startouch empire come from the hands of the very humans they once despised so much.

The next logical thing to get from Ripples was that it described the birth of the Sea of the castout, caused by none other than Aaravos falling from the sky! The short story describes a small star falling down, changing the world, birthing a new sea.

It HAD to be Aaravos right? He's a fallen star! But he wasn't the one that gifted humanity with primal magic, through primal stones. He was the one that gave them the Dark magic. Back then I thought that maybe he was the one to do it, but if Leola and Aaravos are connected, then ripples might be about Leola's passing/falling.

Cookiesaddict made a post pointing out the possible connections of Aaravos and Leola, you should read it, but to summarize the points. Once in the NYCC this question was made:

Cookie suggested that this person might be Leola. During the S5 watch party I asked Devon if the Statues in the Sea of the cast out were made before or after Aaravos was impriosioned, because people were wondering why the hell would the prision have that GIGANT STATUE almost screaming: HEY, AARAVOS IS HERE!! COME GET HIM!! and this was the response!

Now, we see that statue both in the show and as a sketch, the other elf is known as "The merciful One" as disclosed by Aaron on twitter. BUT HMMMM THAT SKETCH.... LOWKEY REMINDS ME OF... THIS SKETCH....

The one from Ripples!!

Personally I think in S6 Aaravos will tell Viren about Leola, and maybe through that story we'll find out why the hell did Aaravos insisted on having Viren to live until the end, and how their themes/motives are actually more similar than we thought it was. It's not about power, but about what they'll do to save/avenge their loved ones, their family. I also read a theory that the sparklepuff sacrifice was a test on Aaravos part, while I do think that with the theory of mine it might make sense, I also fail to see why would he go to such an extent to test Viren? Maybe Aaravos realizing that Viren is much more of a family driven man than he already knew he was (as he mentioned he wouldn't expect him to sacrifice Claudia or Soren) will be the thing to trigger their interactions where Aaravos tells him about Leola. As things stands now, Viren is the only logical character to be the narrative tool in which Aaravos shares his side of the story. They're the one that have the most intimacy for him to be "vulnerable", and perhaps their final departure will come from Viren trying to talk Aaravos out of his path of revenge, to share the realizations he had with his nightmares, ohhh my god, can you imagine, Aaravos finally is vulnerable, finally shares about Leola, shares his grief, to the one he thought might understand, because they're similar, but Viren is too far into his search for personal redemption, and belittlethe bitterness Aaravos held in for so long. Super ultra gay divorce is coming (in my delusions).

[captjprice]

Soap with an Welsh f!reader? 😩 With him just trying his best to learn her about culture, language and country. Just loving her so much that he'll do anything for her. You can add anything I just want my Welsh representation ‼️

Johnny ''Soap'' Mactavish x Welsh!Reader

a/n: i did research. sort of. still, im sorry if its not perfect :( i also havent written fro johnny before so this is.. new

mentions: Fluff, Johnny's an arse, but it's cute

''So, yer basically speaking Elvish, that's it?'' A Scottish voice snaps you from your thoughts. A Scottish voice that belongs to a man you'd very much like to punch and slap. Knowing Johnny was.. dreadful, but even more so now that he seemingly discovered Welsh was the inspiration for Tolkien's Elvish. Your culture wasn't something you spoke about often in the group, mostly because you didn't think any of the members would bother with it.

But then there's Johnny, who seems to be almost too into it. He was constantly at your side, teasing and asking about it. You were wrong, however, to assume that it held ill intent. He was head over heels. Totally smitten. With you, the way you looked, the way you acted.. Ofcourse he was going to try and get to know you. Despite your annoyance, he didn't let up. He'll get what he wants eventually. 

''Not really Elvish then, Bonnie?'' He asks, leaning to you in the booth of the bar. Fuck, that nickname too.. You had to look it up the first time he called you that, thinking he was calling you by someone else's name.

''Not really, Johnny.'' You grumble in response, downing the last of your drink with hopes that it may numb the irritation and secret attraction for him. Sure, he was a cock, but he also had this irresistible aura around him that was intoxicating somehow. It made you want to linger around him, so you did just that with the hopes it wouldn't be too obvious. 

''So it's just inspired it, then, lass? Come on, talk to me.'' He presses, causing you to huff and shift towards him. ''Yes. It's just inspired. But it's a bit annoying because that's all people talk about when I tell them i'm Welsh.'' You mutter, which causes his smile to twitch slightly. Shit. Bad move, Johnny.

He clears his throat, scooting a little closer to you. ''Alright. Tell me somethin' interesting, then.'' Johnny says with a nod, staring at you. The way he's giving his undivided attention is making you slightly flustered, especially with the way he's looking at you. Good grief.. 

You move again, your hands placing around on your thighs as you think of something to tell him. Eventually you let out a little breath, ''Um, well, the language is very pretty. Cariad means darling, for example.'' Why am I telling him about nicknames? ''Uh, blodyn means flower.''

As you speak, Johnny's nodding along, seemingly very interested. ''We also have these things called love spoons, and they're just spoons with symbols engraved in them. It's like a token of love, sort of.. My mum always got me ones with flowers on it. It means love. It's kind of silly, but it's sweet.'' You say, smiling fondly at the memory. When you briefly glance up at him, he's practically swooning as he looks at you. ''Sounds adorable, lass.'' His hand rests on the free spot between you two, inching a little closer to your thigh. You smile softly, tilting your head. So he is actually interested. ''Uh, yeah, it's.. yeah.'' You reply, slightly unsure how to continue the conversation. Awkward silence washes over the two of you until Johnny speaks up again.

''So, you plannin' anything after this?'' He asks, his other arm gently snaking around your shoulders. You aren't sure if it's the drinks you've had, or that Johnny just looks so damn good that causes you to lean into him, shaking your head. ''Mm, alright, lass. How about we watch a little movie after, aye?'' His other hand places on your thigh, giving a soft squeeze. 

''Only if ya want to, though, No pressure.'' He adds quickly behind it, not wanting you to feel pressured– especially when intoxicated.

You nod, leaning your thighs over to his side, as if telling him it's okay. ''Sure. Aslong as you don't talk about that fuckin' Elvish again.'' You reply, and let out a little noise when Johnny's hand wraps around your waist to pull you flush against him. ''Or what, Bonnie?'' He teases, looking down at you. ''I'll shut you up.'' You blurt, realizing just how wrong it sounds until after you've said it. He snickers, his hands toying at the edge of your shirt. ''Oh, yeah? You will?'' 

You give an annoyed grumble in response, feeling your face heat up. That wasn't how you meant that comment. At all. You can feel Johnny lean in a little, his breath hitting your ear. ''Shut me up then, lass.''

You definitely did when you got back.

[4sh-n4]

Bruce Wayne, who can't cook to save his life but can bake better than even Alfred. The catch? He can only do it in the night after being awoken by nightmares. No one knows about his extraordinary skills other than Alfred and Dick, because everyone assumes that the baked goods in the kitchen are made by Alfred. Dick knows because when he was younger and couldn't sleep because of nightmares, he used to join Bruce in the kitchen and watch him work.

Dick Grayson, who is an absolute disaster in the kitchen because he keeps getting distracted, but give him a microwave and a dream and he'll prepare a solid three course meal that actually tastes decent. He's also an excellent cocktail maker, which is funny since he prefers to have his alcohol straight without any mixers (he still puts the little umbrellas in his glass though, don't be mistaken)

Jason Todd, who is an ACE in the kitchen because he refused to ever be helpless with food again after getting off the streets. He was going to eat, and he was going to eat WELL. Especially since he finally had the resources to be able to actually experiment with what he likes and what he can do with different foods, instead of just what's cheapest or most easily found. The one thing he can't do? Crack an egg with only his hands without getting any of the eggshell pieces in the food. He needs to use one of those little egg cracking tools. The thing that pissed him off the most about this is that the one thing Dick can do brilliantly in the kitchen, is crack eggs with one (1!!!) hand only.

Tim Drake, who is definitely not michelin star level, but has learnt to sustain himself with instant meals and those little ramen packets. He somehow always makes them taste good though, adding toppings and making sure they are some form of nourishing, even if that just means adding a fried egg on top and calling it a day.

Cass Cain, who has no culinary abilities and does not want them either. Her skills in the kitchen start and end with making sandwiches. Oh, and she can do super complicated tricks with the knives, her and Dick have constant competitions about who can do the coolest thing.

Steph Brown, who lives off of takeaway for most meals, but can make better breakfast foods than most people in the house. Waffles, pancakes, bacon, eggs, toast, you name it and she can make it. Only if it is traditionally eaten before noon though. She also worked as a barista part time for a while, so she knows all the fancy coffee recipes.

Damian Al Ghul Wayne, who doesn't care to cook other cuisines, but taught himself how to make almost every middle eastern and south asian dish he could get his hands on, because it helped him feel closer to his home and his mother when he first moved in with his father. His fondest memories of his mother and of her feeding him his cultural foods and telling him about their origins. It was the only time they did not speak of work, or his training, but instead about what his father was like as a person, about the things his mother has seen on her travels over the years, about his maternal grandmother, about his interest in animals.

Duke Thomas, who can cook enough for a 15 year old but doesn't touch the kitchen of Wayne manor very often, not unless he's just sitting on the counter watching others or helping minorly. His memories are still fresh enough to bleed when touched and all his memories of him cooking in the kitchen have his parents happily dancing in the background on Sundays with loud music blaring through the walls as they teach him how to chop onions without crying or knead dough.

Alfred Pennyworth, who only had the most basic culinary skills when he began working for the Waynes but was forced to learn how to cook when he was unexpectedly given custody of an 8 year old. He can cook better than most professional chefs in the world now, but he still hoards Thomas Wayne's old cookbooks like they're the only tangible part left of the man who once filled the halls of the manor, even though he knows that's not true. He'll pass them down to his grandchildren one day...just not today. Today, they're still his.

[lovecoree]

𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒 — 𝐁𝐓𝐒

pair: bts x short blackfem!reader

synopsis: head canons of being with BTS members.

warning: reader is black coded, reader uses she/her prns, reader have Trinidad and tabago Caribbean roots, let me know if I miss anything!

a/n: requested by @lelewright1234

𝐊𝐈𝐌 𝐒𝐄𝐎𝐊𝐉𝐈𝐍

obsessed with your cooking. I’m talking about the best food he ever had in his life. Jin loves trying different foods. When it come to you cooking for him he’s always thankful and loves the food. “I can’t wait to eat your delicious food babe!”

You and seokjin have been dating for 6 months and he’s already thinking about popping the question.

The location is beautiful. Nice sunset view, the bright beautiful ocean, the sand that feels nice on your toes as he gets down on one knee, opening up the black velvet box revealing the big diamond rock.

It was beautiful and perfect.

Of course you said yes. Being with him was amazing and he could say the same.

Enjoying being newlyweds as y’all both explore each other’s culture is beautiful and fun and would bring so much happy memories.

𝐊𝐈𝐌 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐉𝐎𝐎𝐍

Married for three years and have one daughter.

Namjoon taking pictures and videos of you and your four year old daughter dancing to machel Montano songs. Smiling as you and your daughter laugh together.

Namjoon trying to figure out how to fix y’all daughters hair for school.

“Princess you have beautiful hair.”

You watched as Namjoon put y’all daughters hair into two big bush pigtails perfectly.

“Not bad.” You smiled. “Learned from the best.” He smiled kissing you on the lips.

𝐌𝐈𝐍 𝐘𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐈

Helps you out around the house making sure to tease you as you waddle your way into the kitchen.

You’re five months pregnant and you’re expecting a baby boy!

You pout as you try your best to grab a cup from the cabinet, Yoongi comes up behind you grabbing your favorite cup and sitting it on the counter, kissing your cheek he smiled while rubbing your baby bump.

“My short baby.” Your pout only made him tease you more.

“Ok, make your own food tonight.” Your thick accent coming out whenever your mood swings kick in.

Yoongi immediately stops laughing and try his best to convince you to let him eat your amazing food.

“Ok baby I’m sorry.”

𝐉𝐔𝐍𝐆 𝐇𝐎𝐒𝐄𝐎𝐊

loves..I mean LOVES the carnivals.

He’s so mesmerized by the way you dance, smiling as you dance to the beat. Your red costume complimenting your skin great, your hair nicely done. You are beautiful!

He couldn’t take his eyes off of you the whole night.

You send him a sly wink when you got closer, moving your hips as he tries to catch his breath.

You are even more happy to teach him how to dance to your music when he ask you once y’all both got home.

Him giving you a nice massage after you change out of your costume and wrapped up your hair.

“You were amazing baby, I can’t wait to see you perform again.”

𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊 𝐉𝐈𝐌𝐈𝐍

Been married for two years and still gets shy seeing you in your costumes for the festivals you attend.

You find it cute as he tries his best to look at your eyes the whole time.

Once alone he’s not afraid to roam his hands on your body.

“You look beautiful jagiya.”

Talks about having kids together.

One girl and one boy.

“Imagine walking around pregnant, you’ll look stunning.”

“You’ll make a wonderful mother.”

“Are kids might be short since we both lack height.”

“HEY!”

𝐊𝐈𝐌 𝐓𝐀𝐄𝐇𝐘𝐔𝐍𝐆

Brags about your cooking to his group.

“Yup my beautiful girlfriend made me a delicious meal.”

“She makes the best food ever.”

His parents making you lunch for you when you go to work.

Your boyfriend leaving cute notes in the lunchbox for you.

“Have a lovely day babe.”

“Don’t over work yourself <3”

“I miss you already.”

Being a nurse comes in handy, but sometimes Taehyung use it for any excuse as possible.”

“Look baby, I’m bleeding badly.”

“Tae.. it’s just a paper cut.”

𝐉𝐄𝐎𝐍 𝐉𝐔𝐍𝐆𝐊𝐎𝐎𝐊

Teases you..I mean full on teases you as a hobby.

“You need help reaching that.”

“My short girlfriend needs help, hmm?”

“Aww are you mad at me? I’m sorry babe.” No matter how much he apologizes he gots a playful grin plastered on his face.

Takes care off you

Loves watching you get ready for work

Friday nights y’all both watch a movie together and enjoy the food you prepare.

Carries you to bed when you fall asleep through half of the movie.

“Good night beautiful.”

[mwolf0epsilon]

Talking with @milfcutlawquane and @lost-on-kamino about AU stuff always yields amazing results. I love you guys <3

Previous Posts: [X] [X] [X] 501st Species Swap Examples: [X]

There are clones that take longer to change species. This is either due not having any impactful experience with another species of sentient and thus the infection process stalling, or due to not being in contact with other clones for very long periods of time.

Examples of clones who take a while to change are:

Ponds, who worked primarily with humans so it took a while for a species to actually stand out and stick with him (getting abducted by bounty hunters sure leaves an impact on a person).

Boba, who was majorly isolated from other clones so he became infected when he came into contact with Ponds and the clone officer (even so his changes only began when he entered puberty, so for a while he thought he was immune).

Gregor, who was MIA for a very long while so he wasn't exposed until he regained his memories and managed to get back to the GAR all on his own (some people started making bets on what he'd become due to him being virtually the last fully grown clone to be affected).

Another set of fun developments from my conversations with Rey and Rogue are:

Ponds gets to survive in this AU and he decides to take in Boba rather than just let the kid get tossed into prison. It takes some convincing (not because Mace doesn't think Boba learning from the clones wouldn't be good, but because he's concerned the war will not give anyone the time necessary to actually get the kid on the right track), but Ponds gets his way and he's officially named Boba's custodian. The kid also has mandatory supervised community service and classes he has to take, but honestly he's got it good compared to the alternative.

Ponds becomes a Palliduvan due to his encounter with Aurra Sing, and Boba becomes a Trandoshan a year after he's taken in by Ponds.

Cody becomes a Kaleesh, which honestly surprises no one considering the 212th's close shaves with General Grievous. He has joked about potentially altering his bucket to resemble a mixture of clone helmet and Kaleesh mask, since people keep remarking his face looks a little naked when bare.

Gree becomes a Mirialan, which he uses as an opportunity to learn more about their culture and customs. By showing a newfound eagerness to learn from them, Gree and the rest of his battalion become much closer to Luminara and Barriss. This has a majorly positive impact on Barriss especially.

Wolffe has to learn to come to terms with the trauma Ventress caused him since he's become a Dathomirian. He feels isolated from the rest of the 104th who've become Kel Dor, and it doesn't feel fair to him that she stole more than his eye from him, and that she had more of an effect on him than he's comfortable admitting to.

Bly finds that thanks to him and the majority of his men now sharing a species with their general, Aayla is no longer the center of unwanted attentions. He knows his general can handle herself (and would have no qualms beating up anyone who tried anything funny), but it always bothered him that some people had a tendency to openly drool while watching her. As it stands now, it's hard to find one attractive Twi'lek lady among many attractive Twi'lek men, although come to think of it, now they're all being gawked at which is not ideal either. That's the only aspect of being a Twi'lek he's not overly fond of. The blatant fetishization.

Fox has no option but to just accept he's an Amaran for reasons unknown to him and has to learn how to keep his emotions hidden all over again. His poker face is still flawless, but now he has a tail that reacts to his moods and it's a bit of a nightmare learning how to control it. It doesn't help that his Commanders and Shinies all seem enthralled by the dang thing.

There's a lot of positives to the change, but they do not outweigh the one negative that sets the Coruscant Guard on edge: Why is it that now that they don't look like clones, people suddenly accept that they're not soulless meatdroids? They have ALWAYS been individuals, so why should a change of species/appearance be the thing that convinces the people that used to not trust/hate them? The Guard doesn't like how shallow a change of perspective this is, and only trust the few people who've always been kind to them.

[inmyfxith]

SFW Alphabet - Neytiri

A/N -> This template isn't mine, I don't remember where I found it so if it's yours don't hesitate to tell me so I can credit you.

A = Admiration (what do they absolutely adore about you?)

Neytiri admires her partner's courage, intelligence, and compassion. She is drawn to their strong sense of purpose and their dedication to their values and goals. Neytiri also admires their physical strength and athleticism, and she loves watching them fly on their banshee or engage in other activities that showcase their skills and abilities.

B = Body (what is their favorite part of your body?)

Neytiri's favorite part of her partner's body is their eyes. She is drawn to their bright, expressive gaze and finds them captivating and full of depth. Neytiri loves looking into her partner's eyes and feeling a sense of connection and understanding that goes beyond words.

C = Cuddling (how do they like to cuddle?)

Neytiri is a physical person and enjoys close, affectionate contact with her partner. She likes to cuddle with them in their nest. She is also fond of traditional Na'vi forms of touch, such as massages and skin-to-skin contact, which she believes help to connect her to Eywa and to her partner on a deeper level.

D = Dates (what does their ideal date with you look like?)

Neytiri's ideal date with her partner would involve exploring Pandora's natural beauty and trying new things together. For example, they might go on a hike through the forest, fly on their banshees to a remote waterfall, or visit a new village and learn about the local culture.

E = Emotions (how do they express emotion around you?)

Neytiri is very open with her emotions and is not afraid to express them around her partner. She is sensitive and caring, and is always willing to listen and support her partner when they are going through a difficult time.

F = Family (do they want one? If they do, when?)

Neytiri is open to the idea of starting a family with her partner in the future, but she wants to wait until they are both ready and have the necessary resources to provide for a child.

G = Gifts (how do they feel about gift giving? What are their habits when it comes to this?)

Neytiri does not place much value on material possessions and is not particularly concerned with gift-giving. However, she does appreciate gestures of affection and appreciation from her partner. She loves it when they give her something that has special meaning to them or that reflects their personality, such as a handmade bracelet or a special plant from Pandora.

H = Holding Hands (when/how do they like to hold hands?)

Neytiri likes to hold hands with her partner when they are out in public or when they are having a deep conversation. She finds it comforting and a way to feel connected to them.

I = Injury (how would they act if you got hurt?)

If Neytiri's partner were to get hurt, she would be very concerned and would do whatever she could to help them. She would immediately tend to their injury, call for medical help if necessary, and stay by their side until they are fully recovered.

J = Jokes (do they like to joke around with or prank you? how?)

Neytiri and her partner like to joke around and tease each other in a playful manner. They enjoy making each other laugh and lightening the mood with humor.

K = Kisses (how do they like to kiss you?)

Neytiri likes to give her partner soft, gentle kisses on the lips. She is a passionate person and her kisses reflect her deep love and affection for her partner.

L = Love (how do they show you they love you?)

Neytiri shows her partner that she loves them through acts of affection, such as hugs, kisses, and small gestures of appreciation. She is also very supportive and understanding, and is always there for her partner when they need her.

M = Memory (favorite memory together?)

Neytiri's favorite memory with her partner is the first time they flew on their banshees together. It was a thrilling and exhilarating experience that brought them closer together and solidified their bond.

N = Nightmare (what is their worst fear?)

Neytiri's worst fear is losing her partner. They bring joy and meaning to her life, and she can't imagine a future without them. Neytiri also fears losing the respect and trust of her community. As the daughter of the leader of the Omaticaya clan, she has a strong sense of duty and responsibility to her people. She is deeply concerned with upholding their traditions and values, and she fears that she might disappoint or let them down in some way. She is also anxious about the future of Pandora and the challenges that her clan might face, and she worries about being able to protect and provide for them in the face of uncertainty.

O = Oddity (what is one quirk they have?)

One quirk that Neytiri has is that she is always singing to herself under her breath. She has a beautiful voice and loves to express herself through music.

P = Pet Names (what do they like to call you?)

Neytiri would likely call her partner by a term of endearment or respect that reflects their personality and their relationship. Some options might include "my love," "my mate," "my warrior," or "my bond-brother." She might also use a traditional Na'vi term of affection, such as "my etskol," which means "my heart." Neytiri values sincere, heartfelt expressions of love and appreciation, and she would likely choose a term that reflects the depth of her feelings for her partner.

Q = Quality Time (how do they like to spend time with you?)

Neytiri likes to spend quality time with her partner by doing activities that they both enjoy, such as exploring Pandora's natural beauty or trying new hobbies together. She also values one-on-one time and enjoys quiet moments where she can talk and connect on a deeper level.

R = Rhythm (what song reminds you of them?)

The song that reminds Neytiri of her partner is "I See You" from the Avatar soundtrack. The lyrics and melody capture the deep connection and understanding that Neytiri and her partner share, and the song's message of love and unity resonate with Neytiri's values as a member of the Omaticaya clan.

S = Secrets (how open are they with you?)

Neytiri is very open and honest with her partner, and she values their trust and confidence. She is willing to share her deepest feelings and fears with them, and she encourages them to do the same. Neytiri is also very loyal and protective of her partner, and she will keep their secrets and confidences safe.

T = Time (how long did it take you to get together?)

Neytiri and her partner took some time to get together, as they had to overcome initial misunderstandings and biases. However, once they were able to see past their differences and understand each other's perspectives, they were able to build a strong, loving relationship.

U = Upset (how do they act when you’re upset?)

When her partner is upset, Neytiri is very supportive and tries to listen and understand their feelings. She is patient and empathetic, and she does her best to comfort and reassure them.

V = Vaunt (what are they proud of? Do they like to show you off?)

Neytiri is proud of her partner's strength and determination, and she is happy to show them off to others. She admires their courage and ambition, and she is proud to be by their side.

W = Warrior (how do they feel about you fighting? Would they fight for you, beside you, etc?)

Neytiri supports her partner's desire to fight for their beliefs and would fight alongside them if necessary. She knows that they are a fierce and capable warrior, and she has complete faith in their abilities.

X = X-Ray (how well are they able to read you?)

Neytiri is very perceptive and is able to read her partner's emotions and thoughts well. She is attuned to their moods and can often sense when something is troubling them.

Y = Yes (how would they propose to you?)

Neytiri would propose to her partner in a special, intimate setting, surrounded by nature and with a heartfelt speech. She would take the time to express her love and commitment to them in a meaningful way, and she would present them with a beautiful ring as a symbol of their bond.

Z = Zen (what makes them feel calm?)

Neytiri finds peace in spending time in nature and practicing meditation. She enjoys the tranquility and calm that comes from being surrounded by natural beauty, and she finds that meditation helps her to clear her mind and find inner peace.

[piperscharm]

MY TAKE ON THE CANON PJO/HOO SHIPS:

Percabeth

Okay so, I’ma be real. I was kinda disappointed when they got together. I thought we were gonna have “Not Every Boy/Girl relationship is Romantic” representation. But as I read more of their relationship after that, I learned to love their relationship, because its not ALL romantic. They still have that same close friendship they did before they got together and I love that. Their 5 book build up was absolutely awesome tho tbh. Love a slowburn. They are genuinely cute, silly and fun. They are the old married couple at camp teaching the campers cool stuff together. They really compliment each other. Something so personal and perfect about their relationship is that they are both different kinda of smart. Percy is street smart and Annabeth is academically smart. Also, they are both strategic in their own ways and are strong af. The fact that they are basically each other and healing the other while healing themself is precious to me. They are both insecure and feeling lonely in a demigod world, but they found and completed each other.

Jasper

Yeah, no. Super forced, and not stable. Piper is loving someone who she doesn’t even know, hence her having false memories of him. Jason doesn’t even know her and instantly fell in love. Personally, I’m not a believer in love at first sight. You have to get to know the person to truly love them for all they are. Piper is insecure and a girlboss and this relationship is keeping her alive in HoO, because she is so angry at the world. She’s living off Jason practically and thats not healthy for either of them. Jason is progressively learning about her, but it’s so middle school relationship stuff. Its really shallow love and Piper needs more than that as a child of Aphrodite. Jason needs that too because that’s just how he is but they’re relationship is built of the stress and desperation of war. So yeah. Sorry if this isn’t accurate, I haven’t read HoO in a bit and I’m not good with characters lol.

Frazel

They’re cute tbh. Age gap is a little scary, but I read something proving that they’re closer in age if you look closely. Anyways, I really like these two. They were crushing on each other before war and were really the only ones there for each other before Percy came to save the day for the Fifth Cohort. They literally had a normal crush on each other, like Percabeth but they didn’t do anything super dangerous together that brought them closer I’m guessing. Their quest with Percy brought out parts of Hazel and Frank that they needed to learn about in order to pursue a healthy relationship. They learned of each other’s pasts. On the Argo II, Frank being jealous of Leo is so cute honestly. Hazel comforting him for it too is awesome and its a cool dynamic. They are just a cool, calm, awesome power couple. They are super powerful and it was so cool to see them discover themselves together and loving each other for it. And interracial representation?? Hello?? Awesome rep, I think. Their cultural differences didn’t stop them and that’s so good for them.

Caleo

No. Just, hell no. It’s a relationship sculpted of desperation. Calypso being nice to him all of a sudden on the beach was uncalled for. Enemies to lovers can NEVER be rushed. They were super rushed. Both of them are desperate too. Calypso was desperate to get off her island and Leo was desperate for a partner after seeing everyone else have one. That is not healthy ‼️‼️ Also, Calypso is mean to Leo?!?! Calypso is bossy and kinda sorta rude to him. Like, hello??!? Leo is a little blinded by the desperation of love to realize this. If they really wanna make it work, get couples counseling from Percabeth, they are by far the healthiest couple. Caleo was def something Rick pulled outta his ass.

Solangelo

Solangelo is my biggest ship, I love them, but I do have some opinions fs. First of all, they are beautiful in theory. I love thinking of what they could’ve been. Yeah the canon’s cool, but Rick doesn’t know how to write gay characters. So most their content is different from the straight couple until TSATS. TSATS was much better writing. Rick had helped from a queer author so they acted like any other couple once again. Second, I love their simplicity. Like, they saw each other in war, thought the other was cute and was like “oh what the the heck?” and eventually got together after the war showing it was not desperation but real. Honestly, I think it started out as a crush then some shallow dating, but after being through the Tower of Nero and that whole thing, it started to get more real. In TSATS, we see them get a deeper connection. They’re whole little shallow crush thing is getting deeper and that dynamic is awesome. Also, they complement each other, and they’re dynamics are awesome. But I really love that they teach each other things. Like Will teaching Nico to embrace his light but to not forget his darkness. Nico teaching Will to embrace his darkness but not to forget his light. They are learning to be healthy and how to do this relationship stuff. I could go on forever about them and not be done so I’ll stop here.

I think that’s all, so yeah!!! I would love to hear agree/disagreements btw :)

[soulntes]

CHAPTER 6: FIRST LESSONS - BABY STEPS PART 2

CHAPTER 7 : LESSONS FROM A WARRIOR PART 1 SOON

five days have passed since meeting the na'vi mother and learning to be na'vi brought major challenges in their side mission that could take an effort with immense time and patience. the recom's knowledge on the language starts becoming sense with simple words about animals, plants, the anatomy, and greetings were sometimes confusing as hell, but the pain of all.. is forming a complete sentence.

some of the recoms struggle pronunciation with their throat or tongue including and others form a sentence well. it was an on and off lessons between spider and ingyen teaching their assigned students since two is better than one. spider's been asked about what he knows about the culture and forest he grew up in, his eyes light up brighter than any star ingyen seen. there were parts of his stories that were exaggerated for the impression he wants to give off towards the recoms but his mother let him be.

in a distance were miles and ingyen practicing more pronunciation because it was what he struggled, complaining that none of what she tries to explains makes sense. everytime he complained, she hits his forehead with her palm and repeatedly calls him a stupid man.

his ears drop back and his tail moves irritated of the treatment he received than his colleagues. his expectations of becoming close with her is drastically further and further away than he originally thought they were in.

"darling, we're not getting anywhere with this if you keep doing that and i am trying to understand- just it's a pain to even say it right, take pity on me." miles displays his exaggerated hurt expression he tried multiple times on her but it didn't budge her in the slightest.

"you are their leader so you get extra lessons that will benefit your position when you run into another na'vi. if you are trying to learn our ways you have to find whatever is holding you back. it's a struggle within you.. in your memories demon. you have much to learn and that will help you discover what's inside of you that truly wants." she guides his hand over his chest over his heart, holding hers against his as a way to hunt himself.

the hand under hers felt rough but delicate at how tenderly she placed them, looking at him with sincerity. miles takes it as a semi step in their relationship.

something he hasn't ever felt since he was born a few days ago basically. the memories consume his daily routine in reminding himself that he is colonel miles rick quaritch, someone important and valuable to the mission and not some confused man in a na'vi body. at this point he's going with what the rda put him because they know much more in the previous years than he and his soldiers. he just woke up with a burden weighing on his shoulders he'd have to endure.

ingyen takes notice of the silence in timid air they're experiencing so she pulls her hand away which made him kind of missed her touch, "well your na'vi is getting there, you are a skxawng when it comes to creating a sentence. meanwhile we make through the forest, me and seykxel will be teaching how to hunt and herbs that'll be essential in any case of situation."

with a playful scoff to shrug off her change of attitude, "oh come on sweetheart, we were havin' quite a romantic moment."

"quite the opposite what you think of. you are a demon and i am a mother teaching babies learning how to walk. you have the mind of a teenager looking for a mate which is unlikely." nonchalantly tells him every other day he attempts in his failed flirting.

a mate? he wonders when he could bring up the topic someday in their days that come they're adventuring since he's not oblivious what she meant. his curiosity goes where he can gget the chance asking her if she is mated or not so he'd see what else he can use to his advantage other than the kid. the more insite he learns about her and spider's life.. his advancements to find jake sully will be closer.

before she could stand, the demon wanted to know about something that night spider sang the same song she sung on the first night. he was curious at how they could be related.

his hand reaches to grip hers slightly to stop her and she's startled by the contact looking at him with a questionable expression.

are you touching me? her body language said and he took the warning to back off, " sorry sweetheart i wanted to ask you about something, princess? i genuinely want to know.. truly." he says putting his playfulness aside for now.

the woman nods with a calm expression at his serious nature and passes this incident only once to know what was on his mind.

in her perspective, only as few days spent with the demon she learns there's something heavy in his heart and soul that causes him switching personas.

"uh.. it's about this song." he says scratching his head looming over the thought he's had for a days now. "a song?" she tilts her head to the side, quipped curiously.

"i don't know the words but spider was singing it the day before we came to the forest. the lines were about a birth within and thanking eywa." after he explained what he catched on that night, ingyen understood his explanation.

ingyen reaches into her small pouch, grabbing her son's song cord protected in a cloth, decorated beautifully with colored beads by the hands of a loving mother. she gently extends the song cord horizontal to present it properly to the demon, "what seykxel sang that night is a song from his song cord. waytelem. it is what i sing to him every night, what na'vi sing to remember of the story of our lives and with each bead like this one" she points a vibrant green from starting point on the thread, "is what we put at the start of our birth. i put this bead for my son when the great mother guided me to my baby and view it as his birth within me, as he grows i add another that makes his life important. there are other ornaments used such as crystals, bits of bone, and plant material. children's song cords are shorter in length than adults because of their young age but we sing what is close to truth in a different version. "

miles sees the hand made cord with small and big beads showing the significance, listening what she describes a meaning in life here on pandora. it's fascinating that instead of photographing the memories of that person's birth and accomplishment what he remembers in his memories but with songs and the cords.

songs that were sacred to the mother in front of him when she drops her stone cold demeanor for a second and changes back. he smiles at her slight grin staring at spider's cord so he's curious if he reached out to touch it but fought against it, it didn't hurt to ask.

"may i, sweetheart?" his extended hand asking permission. at first she retract her hand to hold it protective of the boy's cord but if she was going to be a positive influence them on the great mother's will, she'd withstand letting him on a hint of the culture with process.

ingyen reaches putting the cord in his large hand and by the way she acted a few seconds ago, his careful touch on the thread and beads that meant so much to put her at ease of his actions.

there wasn't much decorations on it since spider is still a child and still human pushes him back than any na'vi kid.

in his hands it felt nice. he can't imagine the work and love and care out into a wonderful ritual that signifies life of someone. her threads and jewelry represent spider well and has a meaning to how he lived on pandora.

a human child with a na'vi mother.

the wonder floating in his mind on how the child survived for so long among the mother's people and life style to be included in their culture and raised as a fearless kid. his resistance against humans who treated him as a delusional, savage kid and doesn't know the betrayal all those years ago was treated less human.

the humans in bridgehead city treated him far different even if they were the same race. the child was treated a savage and delusional, living a false life of lies because his biological parents died in battle.

they didn't see what miles saw. his blurred memories with his mother. someone who raised him as her own which makes him who is today

this kid is proof of his survival even when he was with the remaining humans on pandora.. this na'vi woman, ingyen, raised him as her own son and loves him and fights an eye for an eye if harm is done against her boy.

the song cord tells his story. a kid more na'vi than the avatars and recoms together.

ingyen's observes his characteristics in the way he held the cord. every touch and glance does something to him she's never seen in anyone.

at home everyone is accustomed with the culture and traditions including the scientists were willing to learn but with this demon taking in her son's cord and gentleness about it felt.. warm. no other avatar took his time in looking over the details and held it like a delicate flower in the palm of their hands.

miles is an interesting being she came across. other than avatars and scientists and her brother jake, she's curious on how he became into this life and who he truly is by the way he shows himself in front of others and times he is conflicted about himself but turn a blind eye.

just by watching him has her decide in showing them deeper into her and her son's way of life to connect and see everything through their eyes. embrace what life lead them here.

looking at how mesmerized he is at seykxel's cord gets her thinking, "i will be making song cords for all of you." miles is bewildered at her statement, "are you sure darling? there ain't much about us we know ever since we woke up."

she flicks his forehead what seemed the billionth time much to his disliking, "does not matter demon because you were born from the skies and the skies brought you here to the forest which eywa can embrace all of her children, you just have to believe what you can do with your new body if you put your heart and soul into the way of the na'vi."

"you like my body princess?" his smirk creeps onto his face and there no hint but a show of disgust on ingyen.

"i mentioned your body because you demons are not used to navigating with that much clothing holding you back. we wear loin clothes and anything we make so it'd be easier to run, hunt, and fly."

miles chuckles shaking his head handing her spider's song cord, "you ain't forcing me into those strings you call clothes lookin' like a joke. i am fine like this."

she shrugs with a whatever face, "suit yourself demon but i do suggest in cutting this part," hers hands moves to demonstrate the length of his pants, "traveling with only your feet helps better grip and agility in your ankles."

"alright cupcake i'll keep your little secret between us." he sends a friendly wink that causes her to push her ears back and tail rapidly move.

she scoffs, "there is no secret and no us, only me and my son. i mentioned your body because it does have a great shape by your shoulders that'll help you in your hunting but your posture is what i'll help you fix. your hands have a nice grip on things that'll be an advantage for you in hand to hand combat but your lower body lacks more muscle. with proper nutrition and work in the time we are stuck with each other, make it count."

she sees how he doesn't pay mind to what she says with his body in a relaxed position leaning on one of his hands. to keep edging the demon into a corner, she thought of a way to encourage him with minor manipulation.

by questioning his abilities and compare him to who he sees competition.

"jake sully didn't see a problem in withstand learning to be na'vi. in fact, he learned quick in a few weeks.. he's inspiring for the men in my village to become good warriors and the women swoon over him even when he is mated with neytiri. oh let me tell you how he helped rescuing my son one-" as she goes to ramble on and see the look on his face but meet an annoyed, bothered demon with his fists clenched.

with her smirk hidden under a stoic one, "what's wrong?"

miles tcks while he stands on his feet staring down at her, "i can do it quicker than sully did."

"really? well he finished his iknimaya in three months, i don't know how you're going to do that in a short amount of time. you have to be serious about it."

the demon smacks his lips with an exaggerated sigh, "i can do it in two months."

she catches her giggles by covering her mouth with her hand, "oh you demons make me laugh. let's make it one and some days, i feel we are going to have a tragedy." she stands on her feet facing face to face even when she a few inches short.

both of them didn't retreat from each other showing who's more dominant in this game of cat and mouse. standing tall and confident in their own skills. ingyen learns the way this new type of demon can improve what the great mother has in store for him that can alter everything in their lives and paths.

"well if, by any chance, make it to complete that ritual before sully you owe me a date sweetheart, without backing out." he suggest of getting the upper hand in developing a mutual relationship.

ingyen already figured out his true intentions just like every man and demon she's confronted but this demon somehow differs from any of them.

but she won't let her guard down showing her wrinkled expression in disgust, "you probably won't survive to accomplish that ridiculous ideal mission."

a finger settles below her chin, raising her head to meet his line of sight, yellow eyes dilate from the intense tension none of them are going to admit and their heart rates changing rapidly, "we'll just have to see and find out princess because i never heard you mentioning a mate."

at the moment, both back down and head back to their camp. there they see the recoms learning more na'vi with spider squatting in front and waving his hands around.

the young boy notices her mom's foot steps and stops what he was teaching them, sending her one of his pure smiles and immediately bolt towards her. he calls out to her like a small child showing his mother a rock he found just for her. ingyen smiles softly to welcome him in her arms. not too far from where she was, appears miles out of the shadows catching spider's attention so to make matters difficult and mildly out of reach, he puts his arms around her neck and jumps in her arms to carry him like a syaksyuk with it's baby.

without hesitation she went along whatever he pleased and spider used his thumb to go over his throat indicates that he'll kill him if anything harms or saddens his mother.

miles rolls his eyes not feeling an inch of threat he's been receiving for the past few days. jealousy over his mother's attention is something he thought he'd never seen from spider.

"good. everyone is here now i can tell you what's next on our lessons."

one by the name of alexander spoke, "what kind of lesson are we getting?"

"lessons that will help you survive on your own in any case of emergency or danger. become fierce warriors for the na'vi after you complete your iknimaya."

zdog raised her hand, "pardon my lady but what is a iknimaya?"

ingyen shakes her head out of kindness that they have no clue about the passage. she'll teach them about the training and hunting and fighting from na'vi and jake's lessons he taught her.

"iknimaya is a rite of passage for young na'vi hunter in order to become a warrior and taronyu.. hunter. this will be a difficult task that little have passed theirs in order to select one another and successfully bond with your ikran. a mountain banshee who will choose you if it attempts to kill you, their future partner."

now it was lyle's turn to ask, "wait a damn minute! you mean the ikran chosen when it wants to kill you! how does that makes sense?"

she chuckles at their sudden reaction that their is more to what she wants to say, "when you make tsaheylu with your ikrans, they will only bond with one na'vi for life and each of you spend time training and learning each other so you'd become close in the beautiful skies above our beloved forest. to build trust."

"yeah the rites of passage are sacred and important for warriors among the tribes. ikrans come in different colors with awesome teeth and as soon they come into contact with your sight they.. attacks!" spider exaggerated on the experience with the laughter he's getting when the recoms flinch. he's witnessed his friends complete theirs and he wishes he can do it.

the mother pats her son then to see how tense they all are.

"but before we can talk further about it; i teach you how we navigate the forest with our hands, feet, bodies, ears, and eyes. they're to be important when you hunt for your own food and water. you will learn to thank the great mother for hunting." she points out and miles butts in, "alright then ladies, gather your weapons we're goin' hunting."

the recoms start grabbing their armed guns and pistols when ingyen holds her bow out to whack the demon's head, he groans holding his throbbing skull, "sweetheart i think you're enjoying this a little too much. what did I do now? you said we were going to learn and you smack me." she hums, "exactly demon but not with your demonic tools, make too much noise and useless in the forest. you'll torture the animal."

"then what the hell are we suppose to use?" she puts her bow and arrows and dagger out to show them the obvious.

"this is what na'vi use to hunt and finish. it'll be more quiet and useful than a loud machine that can scare the prey." ingyen explains bringing out a handful of bows giving them a few arrows, and hand carved daggers she kept in some bush that surprised the recoms.

they didn't know how the hell she crafted them quick within a few day and kept them hidden well but they rather not question. they noticed each dagger is designed its own color and styles that are almost similar to theirs in their pockets. these daggers have their own signature to who holds it represents.such detail and work put into these gems.

miles was the first to get his own bow and analyzing each detail from the woods to the string attached then eyes his own crafted dagger, "this is what were going with?"

she nods, "yes and if you have problem then you can not complete your iknimaya to earn your ikran. if seykxel could, he'd done it less than jake and when you wish to do yours." spider puffs his chest out at his mother's high praise she gives.

"alright darling, how do you suggest we use them since all we used is our demonic machines."

"to use tsko you got to have good posture with correct breathing and your aim requires full concentration. i will show you." she waves them to walk behind her with spider on her back.

with the speed she was going it's difficult for them to catch up as they stepped on rocks, overgrown roots, slippery grass, and plants in their way. they're all out breath which got her smirking because they were all cocky and think some demons can out smart a na'vi woman and her child who loved here all their lives.

they all arrived with tired expressions to an open area where the sun shines through the outline of the trees. around the circle were placed with targets.. small, large, wide, narrow, high above the trees and few in between plants and branches.

she slightly bends down for her son to get off. as spider stood next to his mother, she let out a bird calling out to in the area and in the distance was a long screech. their ears flicker trying to locate the sound when a flying creature flew above them searching which the mother let out another call.

it locates her sound as it dove at a high speed where they were, making them think it was going to attack. they felt vulnerable but the creature spread it's wings to have a swift landing. looking at it closely is an ikran with a rider's seat strapped on it's back and screeches with ingyen offering a piece of meat to her ikran that accepts. she soothes the creature with a smile petting it, "this is tsìlpey. if you want to live, do not look at her in the eye." the recoms were too shocked in seeing one so soon that they averted their sight somewhere else fast before it offended the creature.

ingyen pats her ikran's neck to the chest as she grabbed a bow that was attached offering it to the child, "seykxel." her son saw the bow she brought with her knowing they were going to meet again, "nga tsko ma'itan. fkew tsamsiyu kin sneyä tsamsä'o."

your bow my son. a mighty warrior needs his war weapon.

spider grabs the bow to lay it down before he hugs his mother, appreciating that she brought his gift, "irayo sa'nok." thank you mom.

her smile grew everytime she feels his touch and warmth nature he brings. miles observe their interaction what seemed like a gesture of appreciation since the bow looks rather new without use and what he can understand is the bow of a warrior. it's different from what she showed them hers. there was a probability of earning your own signature to it.

the kid goes back to hold his bow in his hands and sits a nearby rock making a few adjustments to his comfort, "with the bows i made for you, we'll practice on correct posture and aim before you can shoot your arrow that may determine i let you hunt on your own and prove your skills."

"i think we'll get the posture down in no time sweetheart. we're military." miles spoke that caught the recoms to look at him to not push it and spider's wide eyes, side eyeing him like he didn't just hear what he told his mom since they've been seeing how much ingyen punishes the colonel everytime he got something wrong.

she quirks her blue, striped eyebrow while crossing her arms over her chest, "if you are a great demon warrior then show me. you fail, you run around the circle and do it again with what good posture i show."

miles takes the bow off his body and in his hands ready to show her what he's made of. with arms ready to raise at shoulder length with his right hand gripping the string and the other holding the base and placed arrow aiming the tree in front of him. he tries to imagine it with a gun when he locks eyes where he wants to shoot and he lets go. it hurt like hell holding for a few seconds by the texture he felt at his finger tips.

a smack and a tug at his tail burned his rage turning his head a full degree towards the mother. what the hell could he have done wrong this time like his posture wasn't bad? ingyen points her finger where he supposedly shoot but was no where to be seen, "you fail demon. i want you to go run, wait for your turn once your back."

she orders him since he doesn't have a choice, "my posture was at least good. i held the bow how you na'vi do it even if my shot is by a long shot perfect."

"you did not. your arms were low. your gear is in the way checking if you were sucking your stomach in properly and the way you held your bow is on wrong side so you did not do any. now go before your punishment gets worse." with those demands the man groans and starts his one lap.

it's staring to feel like military training all over again.

his team began to snicker when he left just by seeing him give in easily, let alone be a na'vi woman demanding him like a sergeant. they found it amusing and hilarious as spider ran beside him to taunt straight in his face.

ingyen turns her head in their direction and they quit their horse play to focus in avoiding of facing her rath.

"who wants to be next and what do you prefer? i teach or test your skills blindly?"

...

hours and hours of bow training spent the recoms in cardiac arrest, with punishments they faced of any slight error ingyen notices.

you miss a shot.. run.

your posture is in incorrect. smack!

your fingers get cramped. you get cussed out by her.

you didn't raise your arms right.. just pray to the great mother the looks she gives doesn't drop you dead immediately.

it went worse for their colonel. his left hand became more cramped and gained bruises, his body aching has come intolerable for him to move a muscle, his head hurt like bitch from the whacking, and is done being cussed out by her.

the worst is the kid watched the whole thing as soon her back was turned making the situation worse by taunting him.

finally the day full of clouds were adorned by stars in the eclipse, they can rest for another learning experience of the na'vi life. nobody said it was going to be easy but they didn't expect it to be this challenging with learning the language at the same time.

miles spent his few minutes of break on composing himself as quick as can before she comes back from her hunt, "you know you can always quit dude. just tell my mom and she'll see how unteachable you are compared to the others.."

spider appears in his line of sight smiling at watching him suffer at the aftermath, groaning to even consider the thought in quiting.. not when he's close.

"give you the satisfaction? no way i'm doing that. quite frankly i am starting getting used to this and your pretty momma." he spits back to shut him up which works everytime he changes his cocky look to a displeased one.

"don't look at me like that kid, you were poking fun at me."

spider crosses his arms over his chest, "yeah that's funny but mentioning my mom isn't."

miles chuckles at his immaturity thinking that he'll be with her in the slightest.

i mean.. he does find her attractive. her face holds an immense grudge but once her walls are knocked down, she looks beautiful smiling and laughing whenever they mess up. when she's teaching him how to hold a bow, makes him look at her with a fierce personality and a passion for teaching her culture and lifestyle. the colonel only seen a small glimpse of her features.. like her eyes have a nice shade of vibrant yellow, her lips hold a blush of purple that suits her blue skin, her braided hair moving swiftly as she goes, the way she cares for spider in her motherly nature; even if he's human she holds him dear to her heart watching the love she gives to the boy.

the hardcore training is just the tip of the ice berg but with the their training and development on getting to know more of their culture and lifestyle.. he'll be able accomplish his goal soon.

he admits he admired her fierce personality and rude behavior because he's usually not the one receiving orders including punishment. no matter how much he got smacked, yelled, and punished he handled it professionally so he'd investigate on how she acts, the way she speaks, and how she comes off as.

miles dozed off when the snap of the kid's fingers brought him back to his senses as he is now sitting near where he laid.

spider's hesitant on asking the recom about something but in the end, "so you just woke up with the memories of the demon?"

"what?" he turns his attention back to him.

spider sighs, "did you wake up with the memories of that man? like that's all you know about yourself? no memories or anything that makes you different from him?"

the question he made is a good one. is that all he really knows? was he someone before the memories? he's thinking the last time his memories were suddenly input into his system as he suffers the consequence of questioning his identity. there's no recollection of who he was before he woke up. that is until-

those dreams he's had.

miles hasn't developed a head ache for a while now which is odd because they were down right painful.

"i guess no but there were dreams i've had about the forest." he explains as he moves his head to look up the sky.

"the forest? how? when-" spider spoke but got interrupted by him.

"i haven't born or ever been on pandora. i do not know, same thing i'm asking myself kid." miles sighs covering his face with his arm.

they stay in silence with no clue what else to say but spider did the talking again, "these dreams of the forest, what are they about?"

the recom thinks about what he dreamt about since he didn't have time and proper way of coping with such unknown thoughts he can't even mention in reports.

"i was running through the forest basically and that i barely noticed i was bare foot, let alone being in na'vi attire." this caught the boy's attention one hundred percent, "i just realized in it, i could manage a bow and was hunting."

"nah i don't believe dude! you managing a bow when you've sucked the whole day!" spider laughs at his confession loudly to embarrass miles.

miles grunts and sits up beside him, "ha ha ha. laugh it off squirt, have your little laugh off."

the boy wipes his fake tears regaining his composure after awhile, "okay i'm good now. so what else have you dreamt other than false information?"

miles glares at him for a second and places a hand under his chin, "from what i remember is a woman and a child. they were acting like if they were my family or something."

spider looks at him to see if he's lying and making stuff up to sway him into becoming close but there was no such sign.

the recom continues, "i don't know much but it seemed a happy family in my perspective. there are times i do have memories of human quaritch time to time when that dream vanishes but you can say it's a reminder about who i supposedly am. i was basically birth to do this. what do you think it means?"

the way he explained what he truly felt is a strange experience for the young boy to hear when the recom is the embodiment of his biological father. watching and hearing him be vulnerable for a moment pulls his heart string a bit. he sees what miles can't understand himself.

a confused recom born into this world with the memories who he should take revenge upon betray and disloyalty when he doesn't know the purpose of his life. born into someone that he thinks is him but not himself.

spider shrugs now acting mature in this kind of conversation, "to be honest.. i don't even know. i also had stranger dreams of a na'vi man being mated with my mother. i never seen so happy with someone. my mother may know something about these dreams because my grandmother is tsahik, they talk about these kind stuff. i can ask her."

miles nods in accepting the kid to find the information he needs for personal reason aside from finding jake sully's whereabouts. it doesn't hurt to find out what he's been wanting to find out more about himself and what his purpose is from what happened with the glowing jellyfish.

he had an idea to get closer to spider, "hey i've been meaning to ask your mom but i never got the chance since she seems she has it out for me," it earns him a genuine chuckle from the boy and shares a soft smile, "why does she call you say- saylkeyel cay? something along those words, i'm curious if that's your name?"

spider's eyes widen a bit at his question. it was so strange he manage to catch a small detail that as an enemy wouldn't take into account.

maybe- spider thinks maybe this miles quaritch is far different from the stories he's told by the omatikaya and jake.

he doesn't know where to begin, "it is my name. from what my mother told me is when guided by the great mother, an atorkirina led her where i was asleep at hell's gate and she saw me.. my mother basically didn't question her fate or hesitated in becoming a mother to a human child. she hated humans especially at the demon for causing so much pain and nightmares that she couldn't stand none of them when war was over. her hatred and resentment grew more in her heart."

miles listened carefully what can be useful for a future purpose and spider continues, "many thought eywa led her to her doom because of her hatred and spite against sky people but it was the complete opposite. she called me her syawn." the man picked up what it meant, "blessing."

the kid nods with a cute smile that ignites a sentimental sensation inside miles, "in the beginning she didn't like the idea of asking the help of humans to raise me but she decided it was the best she has knowledge on my growth and health that'll be safe for me to grow strong."

"i bet you looked really tiny in her arms." they laugh simultaneously that you see them carefully.. they were identical to a great extent.

ingyen watched afar of her son's interaction with the demon between the large leaves. her skills of hiding in silence helped her witness their alone time to an advantage if the demon was going to take action in manipulating her son.

but she saw for a second how lively seykxel shined brighter than a star when he was asked about himself. no disgust or fear in his entire life radiating off of another being.

"dude i was compared to a an animal called a kangaroo and her joey. the scientist showed me pictures because they thought it was cute on how i cling to her in a prrsmung." he shows how as a baby his mother took him everywhere.

they were like in their own little world that ingyen wished her son had someone to call a father because of her prise to choose someone who accepts her son just the way he is but it cant be him..

truly not in her years she sees the first someone genuinely interested in her son about himself would be a demon who appears as the sky demon but not entirely.

"then when she asked of my name, she disliked it because it wasn't unique and wouldn't have a strong meaning. seykxel is strength.. emotionally and spiritually as she intended on how i will be facing hard ships with the people accepting me as her son and omatikaya." he continues his explanation, "kay is from now in the future that can be combined together. seykxel kay. 'your strength from now in the future'. if your new it's complicated to understand but she chose this name to be meaningful. i guess i never saw that until i felt i would never se my momma again."

spider became vulnerable in front of someone other than his mother and kiri. ingyen never expected him to feel comfortable around the demon in sharing his feeling and thoughts in his life he kept inside long enough that to tell it to him.

miles didn't know how to react or how to respond but he does know this kid never had a father figure that he always wanted and his mother had to fill in the role so he'd be accepted. to the point he is wiping a tear away before it could fall down his face, "but now I have her here with me. she must've felt at a loss when i couldn't go back. thanks by the way for torturing my mother without me," he sarcastically says and quaritch rolls his eyes, "either way we're stuck here with you and planning to kill you at some point."

miles laughs, "you killing me kid? i bet you don't know hand to hand combat."

"hell yeah i can cuz! jake taught me what was taught to me."

"hah! sully learned that shit from me so it is my training. i have to knock in some sense into you brat. see if you are capable landing a punch on me." he nudges him with his elbow, leaning half way to his shoulders.

the young boy pushes with all his strength barely moving the recom sitting stiff. ingyen smiles at their interaction but keeps in mind that he plays mind games to gain what he needs most from them.

for now she'll let her boy be a child that need acceptance from someone who willingly heard him and sees him.

she knows the demon doesn't know the concept of 'i see you' in their culture but she can teach him into becoming someone far different than who he's suppose to be. she just wants to go home with her son away from war, in that case she will try accepting this demon into learning their lifestyle.

ingyen disappears into the woods to not alert their instincts and come back to seem she never heard their conversation.

she is rethinking her mother's words wisely before her son was taken.

"sa'nok i've been experiencing these dreams of a man. a man i do not know or familiar with because nobody here has the exact image. no long hair, small ears, five fingers that are touching me and looking at me with admiration. we act like mates in what i dream and i am frighten by what it'll mean for me and seykxel. what do i do mother? what does it mean?"

mo'at experiences in this kind of field where one dreams of another at where they could possibly meet or their destiny even when they have never met.

her mother knows something is upon her daughter and her grandson. she takes a deep breath before she spoke, "'ite, what is upon you you choose what is right and whatever the path you are lead to, helps you in what you're looking for. what seykxel desires in his life. there's someone waiting for you both."

ingyen now is frantic what got her mother to the conclusion of finding what she was looking for as someone was waiting.

she didn't need anything else other than her child. and this someone she doesn't know, are they looking for them as well?

mo'at continues, "my child. there is someone who changes your life for better or worse it's what you want and decide in accepting this person. in their downfall, mistakes, and sins. whether it be demon or not, it's what the great mother chooses. the sign she gives is what has been waiting to be searched for a long time but there is darkness upon this person. that is all i can say." she pecks her daughter's head and creases her face.

"and if it affects my son. mother i don't what i i'll do if something were to happen to him." she starts to tear up and her lips wobble at imagining her seykxel in any kind of pain.

"then choose how you act on it my daughter. there are mistakes to be made other wise how would the great mother balance the way of life." she explains playing with her hair for comfort.

her mother was right.

how she approaches these challenges and obstacles are the balance eywa measures within us.

if her son choose his own path then it's something she'll accept as a mother.

she can't shake off the idea of the demon being the possible mate she chooses because out all the bachelors to choose from.. it can be the sins of the devil.

all of them were aware of their coincidental dreams but none of them want to go specifically into detail in any case something happens or doesn't. depends on what they chose and how they react to such vivid memories.

...

after some time miles returns with spider bumping into each other like friends to see who's stronger. of course miles was by a long shot knocking him into a couple of plants on the way and left leaves in his hair as evidence at their childish play.

they see ingyen in a distance cutting the animal in focus to prepare the meal correctly. spider runs to her, ready to help in anything she will need.

"oel ngati kameie sa'nok." he motions the greeting and she does it back with her kind smile. i see you mom.

"fyape aynga lu ma'ite? nga tìsop nìltsan?" she questions on his weird, euphoric behavior. how you been my son? your adventure went well?

"säro'a. miles kar oe tsyokx wä' tsukfäru!" he shows a pretend move against nothing in front of him to show off his skills. it was great. miles taught me hand to hand combat skills.

she giggles watching him be a child again with everything going on. nothing can defeat the flame within him.

she tells him she needs a few things in the forest for the meal. he happily obliged to help her in anything possible.

as he made his venture out alone, miles watch him disappear in the depths of the forest, "you think it's fine he goes alone in the forest?"

she scoffs at his worrisome, "he is a mighty warrior. he is my son. i am his mother. this is his home and it's where he belongs. he knows his way around and if he was in any kind of danger i can get there. i found him and you in a day."

miles squats to her level on the ground and reaches a hand out under her chin since she keeps avoiding eye contact, "seems to me you are an overprotective mamas but you give whatever the kid wants, darling."

she hisses a warning, shrugging off his touch, "of course i am. i am his mother."

he sighs knowing he won't get nowhere with how she acts and does his thing again. grabbing her chin gently to move her attention towards him as he gets close to her, face to face.

he knows he's not repulsive when it comes to appearance and is physically fit making him think how can she resists. he has charm to the authority he radiates within him. there's gotta be a way to sway her heart.

"yeah you did found me and him. what else did you find?" his low sultry voice made her heart a bit tingly but disguised it with a blatant look.

"a son of a bitch." ingyen spits back showing off her fangs in a threatening manner.

miles smirks, "bet those little fangs of yours can give me a heck of a bite like your dirty mouth. right, cupcake?"

she slaps it away clearly showing disgust. before she responds her son comes back with the tools his mom needed with a huge smile.

talk about right timing. miles thought looking smuggling towards her.

her eyes tell him that when they're alone.. he's dead meat like the animal she's skinning.

thinking how this woman is the one in his dreams has him question some stuff that are unanswered. just as spider said about a na'vi man mated with his mother.

he wonders in asking her at the right time because she still seems hostile and closed off to goof off a bit but it makes her unique to him.

what do you think your doing boy? use the kid against her?!

huh? who is it? is it the same voice?

seems you forgotten your place as colonel, soldier?

miles is getting the severe head aches once again. his vision starts getting blurry seeing a blurry image of a man. a human.

the human stood there in military attire staring in his direction.

you haven't got soft have you? is this pathetic savage and boy getting you butterflies and rainbows? no!

why are you holding back?!

holding back.. you mean ingyen and spider? i don't know what you mean? who are you?

you are me and i am you. do what you born to do!

it irritated him how much he keeps hearing that voice constantly. like a virus fighting its way to spread through his body. poison him into it's bidding every time he speaks.

are you tormented by memories my child? a soft and influential voice spoke. miles felt torn between everything. the woman and spider. human quaritch's voice and memories torturing his mind.. manipulating. now another figure or something.

ingyen observes how quickly he changed the way he act a second ago. she feels this intense vibe or curse weighing on this demon battling his inner self.

spider felt his mother's aura full of overwhelmed emotions as she carefully watches over the recom, gripping his head with heavy breath, ears pressed back, and tail swaying in anguish.

spider goes to stand in front of him and place his small hand on his arm for comfort. in response, miles looks at him with eyes full of hesitancy, misery, enragement and doubtful expression he can't manage to tell.

ingyen drops her resilience to join her son to condolence the demon. both of their touch slowly decelerates his heart beat and regains his senses but there is still doubt and immense fear in his eyes. it kind of hurts the mother, she goes as far as bringing him into her arms, pulling her son in as well.

she doesn't know why she's doing it for his sake but there's a curse among him that haunts his day to day life. she's noticed his change when he enters into this state.

the three stayed in silent.

miles close his eyes, taking deep breaths to regain his conscious, and does what he can on making the figure of human quaritch disappear for a while.

ingyen somehow thought of petting his head slowly and started to hum of a lullaby her mother sung to her child self.

little one, do not fear

for i am here, just let go

let your worries disappear

you are everything to me

here i stay

release your fears and nightmares

as i cradle you in my arms

close your eyes and take a breath

feel the love and joy i see

i am here to see that precious smile

brighter than the stars

i see you little one

for i am to protect you

daughter of mine

the mother repeats the melody in hopes of calming the demon which in the end actually worked since her son hums along. miles goes to grab onto each hand and rubs their knuckles.

as soon as he recovered he looks at ingyen, thanking her with his eyes. communicating with one look says it all.

spider watches the moment closely how they give each other the look of sincerity displayed. it's different than how they usually show their own character.

his mama never gave someone a gentle, concern expression.. much less a man who's tried flirting with her and teased her on many occasions.

miles was a different story. the young boy witnessed different scenarios when miles acted different than who he met on the first day. one moment he's a colonel doing what he thinks is right and ordered to do. an intelligent bio weapon the humans rely onto completing what they should've in the beginning. a lost na'vi with the memories of the demon haunting him to influence his choices. someone with a resemblance of his biological father who was never there in the beginning, is acting like they were buddies since the beginning.

he's conflicted with the variety of miles in his eyes that he believes there's only one that can determine the truth of miles identity.

just as the emotional moment slowly died in a pregnant silence, ingyen moves her body away from the demon with her son following.

"you seem to have calm down." she says trying to avoid eye contact again, "i have to prepare our food for the night. i will see you with your friends."

ingyen excused herself and walks where her prey was to take back to camp where the other recoms are. miles and spider stay in their silent bubble trying to grasp what has happened.

"are you feeling alright?" spider asks with eccentricity.

miles nods, "yes it's something that stuck ever since so i'm figuring out what's causing this when it's reoccurring for me. i have to report it back at bridgehead city of my condition. bummer delivering the bad news, both of you have to come with us."

the boy whistled a long one rocking side to side, "my momma is not gonna like this one."

the man chuckles, "yeah. you are right in something."

"you gonna tell her now?"

the recom sighs readies himself before he interacts with the na'vi woman, "have to."

eclipse has started to set in the night sky as everyone prepared their bedding on the trees.

ingyen is set to lay down with her boy when the colonel appears behind her, along his presence known.

he fake coughs to catch her attention which she took her time to look back at him, "yes?"

"i need a word with you, sweetheart." he turns where he'll lead her to a secluded area to talk privately. she tilts her to side at his awkwardness but pushed it behind her as she pecks her son's forehead and a whisper prayer.

she smiles fixing his hair and leaves him to rest to talk with the demon. the recoms all watch this happen until they can not be seen and zdog decided to release the tension.

"so how much we betting that one of them falls for the other? i'm putting two hundred colonel does first."

the recoms choked on their last bit of food and with a croaking voice mansk rebuttals, "what the hell are you on about z? we're on a mission and you seem to forget she and the kid are sully's allies."

"yeah but doesn't hurt a little complicated romance waiting to build. the classical forbidden romance. have you seen how the colonel looks at her!"

brown shrugs, "i'm betting four if ingyen turns smitten for him. she may look as if she can't tolerate and wants him dead but there's care in her heart. she told me my balance was off by tilted my arm this way and it worked! she says i am getting there to earn my ikran."

"i'm putting eight hundred if both of them fall at the same time!" lyle states loudly eating his last bit of meat which shocked the recoms at his theory.

"that's certainly impossible wainfleet. it looks like a one sided if we're speaking on facts." mansk rebuttals.

zdog scoffs, "as if you know women. i know my girl better than anybody."

meanwhile the recoms are discussing among themselves on their bets, miles and ingyen reached where it was far from the group.

"look cupcake, i know you're not fond of us or the humans but we're gonna have to take you with us. i have to be checked on and we can't just let you go." miles explains seeing how she didn't take it lightly.

"me and seykxel are not going to that place." she plainly says to get her point across.

miles sighs knowing it's not going to be an easy task in convincing her, "well sweetheart agree to disagree whether you want to or not, you're comin'."

she hisses at him displeased at his response.

"i get who you're trying to protect but it's risky enough spider has a mask with a tracker on it and if you take him, it'll lead us right where your home is," he holds her arms to think straight of what he's saying, "i promise with me around, nobody won't touch you or the kid."

her ears perk up at his offer to keep them out of reach from harm.

"i can not forgive what they done to my boy.. he is a child. why use innocent children to gain what you need?" she gasps in between breaths, rage filling her body to even think they'd use a kid to manipulate the situation.

"i'm asking myself the same thing but i guarantee that you'll be close to where i'm at. just follow what i tell you and everything is fine."

she hesitates, "if they hurt seykxel i will kill all of them. i swear to end you for not holding what you are promising-" miles interrupts her declaration of slaughter on those she calls demons in her eyes, "they won't touch him and you. not a single fingertip doll."

he seemed true to his words by the way he looks at her and in his voice with determination. she doesn't know why in her heart she's going to believe the vivid memories of the very demon who took everything from her and her people.

there's a battle between the now and past. both have a role in her life changing how she acts and how she lives with her life. by seeing this demon telling how her what could be empty promises.. has her thinking differently about him.

her eyes keeping searching for an answer in his manipulation tactics to trust him and give into his sins.

through his eyes... there was only promising.

they only known each other for a couple of days but somewhere along being stuck.. both of them have the impression they'll get along some day that is destined by these dreams.

they for sure want avoiding in and hesitate when the time comes of war because in the end... no one wins.

it'll be their doom if it counts a face off and they have a choice of choosing in their belief and motivation, ingyen saving and defending her home from the sky people's return for her son. as for miles, all he knows is jake sully betrayed the man who's memories engraved in his system and nothing else. he can't acknowledge himself because of the sole purpose of being created as back up in case the humans didn't accomplish what they were sent here for.

they met at a wrong time.

for sure there's nothing they could do about it but live how life is goin right now and prepare for the worst.

TAGLIST

@skinmittensgoblin @eternallyvenus @winxschester @perseny @cleverzonkwombatsludge @reallysparklychaos @im-in-a-pansexual-panik @liyahsocorro @violet-19999 @drinking-tea-and-be-obsessed @ratchetprime211 @analuw @alexandra-001

[outofangband]

Follow up to my piece on information control in Hithlum and my musings about food and loss of culture in occupied Hithlum

I’m going to make a more coherent post about this but this has been on my mind forever

I’m always thinking about Glaurung destroying Niënor’s memory takes away everything that she learned from Bëorian and Hadorian culture; Morwen escapes Glaurung as a child and doesn’t die, she teaches Niënor all she can of her language and many parts of her culture and Glaurung still manages to destroy it.

Morwen teaches Niënor her own language, and with it memories and lore, songs and folktales and guiding knowledge. Rían is gone and she likely has little to no contact with other Bëorian refugees. Morwen is acutely aware that it has become even less likely that her knowledge of her people and their lore and language and culture will survive long. She still teaches what she can to her daughter

Niënor learns Hadorian culture too, from Morwen, Sador, Aerin and others. And this is at a time where Hadorian culture is suffering under the occupation. 

We know the Hadorian tongue is denigrated and forbidden in Hithlum after the Nírnaeth. This means that, alongside greetings, comfort, reassurances and information, jokes, music, stories, folktales, poems, rhymes, and games are forbidden too and many are lost. Aerin bites her tongue so she doesn’t get caught humming childhood lullabies. Her kin who own any manuscripts see them burned and are beaten before her for hiding them.

Niënor has some of these stories. Fragments of them, of history, of family trees, of culture specific phrases and jokes and songs. 

Even just the memory of Morwen, of those others in the household, of Aerin in her rarer moments where she could be closer to herself, of Niënor’s thoughts and feelings on this.

This is all taken from her.

the destruction of culture is so devastating and seeing it both on a large scale in Hithlum and of Bëor’s people before that, and on this horrifyingly personal scale in Niënor’s attack is just!!

Not all of it is lost! The in universe writer of the Narn was a Hadorian man for example who survived until the third kinslaying. But so much is lost

Also I will make another post about this, but I always think about that quote about Aerin preserving the kindly manners of Hador’s people and I always wonder what other aspects of culture culture it extended to because I do believe I did extend to others, I think about all the ways Aerin maintains cultural traditions even though them being violently oppressed

More posts

[dropintomanga]

Kowloon Generic Romance - A Perspective from a Cantonese-Speaking Person

After reading Mangasplaining’s great interview with Jun Mayuzuki and hearing a lot about the series, I jumped into the 1st 3 volumes of Kowloon Generic Romance. As someone who’s been to Hong Kong and whose mother lived there for a short while, the series’ grand theme about the persistence of nostalgia does make me think about Hong Kong culture.

The series focuses on a potential romance between two real estate agents who work together in Kowloon Walled City, Hong Kong. Reiko Kujirai and Hajime Kudou both live their daily lives working, eating, and contemplating the status of the dystopian metropolis they live in. What starts off as an interesting romance drama suddenly becomes an ongoing mystery regarding identity and what it means to live as someone who feels strangely out of place, but deserves love as much as anyone.

I won’t go into too much detail about the plot, but I will talk about the area that the manga covers - Hong Kong. I’ve been to Hong Kong twice and I find it to be one of the most interesting places in the planet. I went to Mong Kok Shopping Center for anime goods, walked around Kowloon (the Walled City is not there anymore), saw the Avenue of Stars at Victoria Harbor, ate at Causeway Bay and much more. Before moving to the U.S., my mom lived in Hong Kong for a period of time all while getting help from a friend. Although Mayuzuki hasn’t been to Hong Kong, her recreation of it in Kowloon Generic Romance does make it feel like I’m there - or maybe an old part of Hong Kong that’s trying to fight constant change.

An East Asian island filled with so many people living in tight quarters, all balancing the need to move forward versus taking the time to stop and connect with family and friends. For those who are unaware, Hong Kong was ruled by Great Britain from 1841-1997. From around post-WWII until the 1980s’, Hong Kong found itself and become a thriving country. It has a very interesting mix of East and West aesthetics. While one can argue Japan mixes East and West very well today, Hong Kong was the king of showing the beauty of both sides of the world. The Society for East Asian Anthropology has a wonderful essay about “Old Hong Kong” and the nostalgia for it.

What’s funny is that there’s characters in Kowloon Generic Romance that mention how people in Kowloon have nostalgia for it a la Old Hong Kong vibes. Like it’s the same as love. A while back before reading the manga, I watched a video of a woman who left Hong Kong and she talked about how much it’s changed. One thing from the video that stood out to me was the mention of the Cantonese Chinese dialect (which is widely spoken in Hong Kong) possibly becoming an afterthought compared to Mandarin Chinese (the most popular Chinese dialect and one of the top languages in the world). She said she’s committed to keeping the Cantonese dialect alive in the U.S, where she currently lives, for the Chinese communities there.

There’s a scene in Volume 3 of the manga where an antagonist character laments on how the citizens of Kowloon seem stubborn in promoting their traditions in the face of urban development. They think nostalgia as an emotion that’s annoying. I figure that this character would find the woman I just talked about who’s trying to save Cantonese out of a sense of nostalgia to be annoying. It’s funny because some people might argue “Why study Cantonese? Mandarin is spoken everywhere where Chinese is spoken.” I speak Cantonese conversationally, but I find it to be fun. I have fond memories of interacting with fellow speakers of the dialect. Once upon a time, I made some friends due to learning Cantonese from anime. Speaking Cantonese helped me get closer with my parents as well. Lately, the dialect has helped me come to terms with being a person of Chinese descent.

I think about my fellow Cantonese speakers all over the world. I wonder how they would feel if no one spoke it anymore. Would they fight to keep the dialect alive? Would they just don’t care due to the demands of modernity?

I’ve also thought about what Hong Kong residents felt during the 1980s’ and early 1990s’. I was exposed to so much Hong Kong cinema as a child, which was really popular around that time. Although I didn’t understand the themes beneath the surface due to my age, I got to see how filmmakers expressed their thoughts and views on life in Hong Kong before the big handover to China and shortly after.

Kowloon Generic Romance has taken me back to those films and an appreciation of Hong Kong culture in some way. The manga does remind me of the 1994 Wong Kar-Wai film, Chungking Express. Both are love stories based in Hong Kong featuring individuals struggling with loneliness, finding themselves and learning to cultivate love in a fast-paced world.

I’m nostalgic about many things - especially things from the 1990s’. But when it comes to anime and manga nostalgia, I remembered that I got into anime due to Hong Kong culture. I watched Cantonese dubbed episodes of Dragon Ball Z.  That’s how it all began for me. Chinatown was my source of video games in the late ‘90s as a teen and everyone selling them spoke Cantonese. It was also a source for Chinese-translated manga when English-translated manga was about to hit its boom. Reading Kowloon Generic Romance made me think about those days of discovering fandom in the Cantonese Chinese community. 

It also makes me wonder about my place in the Chinese hierarchy in the future. I already struggle with thoughts about belonging and now with so many Chinese speaking Mandarin as their main dialect, I feel like I’m being phased out. Maybe I’m Reiko Kujirai herself. 

I do know that a lot of propaganda use nostalgia for nefarious purposes due to its emotional nature. But I don’t think nostalgia has left me in despair. Some traditions definitely need to pass on to newer generations. Yet I never found myself trying to chase the past to a huge extent. Maybe that’s it. Let nostalgia come naturally. Be like the citizens of Kowloon/Hong Kong and don’t let an entire outside institution define nostalgia for you.

It’s important to have treasured memories that YOU own, good and bad, because they help to cultivate the person you want to be. I appreciate what I have now because of certain nostalgic memories that I personally chose to experience. They unlock our vulnerable selves and tell us that our experiences with our loved ones make life worth living.

That way, nostalgia can help you go forward, whether you want a generic yet satisfying life or a romantic one.

[callous-and-misunderstood]

Sorry to be obsessed with Evie chopping off her hair as an act of separation from her mother and a declaration of self discovery BUT.

Thinking about how when Evie first rejoins Isle society after her banishment, it's more of a culture shock than anything-- how she's suddenly surrounded by scowls instead of smiles, blood instead of beads, leather instead of lace. How she learns who is willing to trade food for a pretty trinket, survival for a glimpse of something that could have been. How she absorbs callousness and cruelty the same way she used to absorb make up lessons.

How she realizes a mirror can't tell her who she is.

Turns out being able to sew and sew well is rare on the Isle, and well. Evie is an expert thanks to the endless hours her mother insisted she spend over the rickety machine they scavenged.

Soon she has a steady business in stitching scraps into coats and wounds into scars. She moves into one of the rundown buildings closer to the market, her mother no longer the key to her survival.

And she takes in the Isle's style, the culture solely focused on surviving to the future, not the remnants of a past life her mother insisted on clinging to, and she sees herself in gleaming blades and tough leather and blood stains.

She trades in fashionable for functional, skirts for pants, heels for boots, makeup for poisons, jewelry for daggers. She goes from silks to spikes with an ease that surprises even her.

And Evie gains a reputation for herself, one completely separate from her mother's , from their ten-year banishment. She becomes something new, something sharp and sly. Someone worth fearing.

It still takes her a while to part with her hair-- hers is longer than anyone else on the Isle, even the Arabian thief's (and he insisted on measuring to make sure). But after it being used against her in a few too many fights, she plops herself in front of Dizzy Tremaine and says firmly, "Cut it off."

Dizzy knows better than to argue with Evie by this point, even if the older girl is a better sister to her than the ones she had by blood. So she picks up the shears and gets to work.

Evie leaves with half her head shaved to the skin, the other half an angled bob that just brushed her chin. She didn't bother to check the mirror before she left, the breeze tracing her bare neck all the confidence she needed.

When Evie next sees her mother, Grimhilde doesn't recognize her at first. Doesn't see the little girl she raised to be a princess, just sees another kid the Isle chewed up and spit out. But Evie had her mother's colors and symbol, the dagger through a bleeding heart, on her leather jacket, and that's how Grimhilde sees what her daughter has become: a better villain than she could ever have been.

And even though Evie doesn't acknowledge her mother, she keeps the memory of Grimhilde's curt nod of approval close to her now hardened heart.

[spirithunts]

» — ⌜NAME & IDENTITY⌟ ,

ahri's name is, alongside the ymelo sunstones (aka her orb), one of the few things her family (or people) left her. while lore states the orb is the only connection she has to her past, it gives no explanation to how she was named — and given her name seems to be important enough to her she does not volunteer it immediately (i'll get to that), i don't think it was just something arbitrarily chosen, and is rather part of her connection to the vesani. how it was made known to her i'm still debating, although her tribe is the one with the power to store and pass on memories, and i imagine they could have left something that would relay that to her innately.

regardless! identity is an important aspect of ahri's story — the central one, even, considering her motivation revolves around learning about her past to find her place in the world and know who (and what) she is. even her struggle against her nature is deeply tied to perception of self and who she wants to be. her name is part of her identity, part of who she is, and part that is held somewhat guardedly.

the first reason for the importance of her name is that it ties her to her people, a people extinct, to which she has very limited means of connecting to. it was given to her (or so she believes) by either her family or those of her people who may have looked after her as a baby. it was the first thing she had, alongside the sunstones. when she was very small and growing up among the foxes, knowing she was different but having no closer kin, the name was who she was and what she was. she wasn't a fox; she was ahri. she had yet to find out what exactly that meant but it was who and what she was.

that doesn't change as she grows and comes into contact with the human world. it's her identity, even if she's still figuring out what exactly that means. and, as a predator, she would not have offered anything about herself, much less her true self, to the people she hunted. it became a guarded part of her because it was who she really was, and from the start that wasn't something ahri opened up about immediately.

even when she is somewhat trusting (enough to be deceived and attacked, in a fair trade), ahri doesn't simply tell people her name.

where one would expect someone to introduce themselves in response, she just skips that part and continues asking about the topic they had been discussing. all throughout the story, she doesn't tell hirin her name. in perennial, no one refers to her by name, implying she never said what she's called. and, perhaps the more significant example of this, she doesn't tell yasuo her name until they're already in bilgewater, even though they traveled together by ship from ionia for what was at minimum several weeks, at most several months and she had already hired him as a bodyguard early on (and even then, she doesn't tell him immediately, despite him pressing her for any information about herself).

this exchange happens when they first arrive in bilgewater, and as seen above, ahri is still reluctant to tell yasuo her name. she more easily suggests they part ways than offers him her name. when she does tell him her name, it's after she charmed the innkeeper and yasuo is questioning her about what did she do to the man (and when he figures she's vastaya and she stops trying to hide that). i'd say even then, were it her choice alone, ahri wouldn't have said it — but because he was already insisting on knowing about other things, she gave in and just revealed it.

on top of her ancestry and how connected it is to her sense of identity, i like to think it's something ahri has become extra careful with the more she learned about vastayan culture. nothing in lore states anything in particular about names, but the vastaya do have a whole 'words have power' thing going on, with how a declaration of belonging to each other is enough to form a bond between two people, even linking (albeit weakly) their magic to each other. i like to think that, because of that, names would also be seen as somewhat.. sacred may not be the word, but deserving of respect. what you call someone isn't trivial; their given name isn't just a word, it's tied to who they are. and, learning about that, ahri would be even less likely to tell her name to someone she doesn't trust. being vastaya is also central to the identity she's been building (it wasn't always, but it became significant to her and she came to identify with it), and their beliefs and customs would definitely play a part and influence how she acts even though she didn't grow up immersed in that culture.

the main point here is that 'ahri' has always been who she was and it was also what she was for the longest time, as she believed there was no one like her and didn't know anything about her people. it was what she was even when ahri didn't know exactly what that meant. honestly i think she still doesn't fully know, but it's still something she sees as central to who she is, and she doesn't reveal anything about who she really is to anyone if there's not a degree of trust. if she eventually volunteers the information to someone, it's definitely because she trusts them; so being called by her name is usually something intimate, though there are exceptions to that (such as the entirety of the ruined king crew knowing her name because yasuo says it).

i don't know what exactly is the point to this or if i even said everything i meant to say but. yeah. names are important to her and she doesn't willingly share her name unless she trusts someone.

[lleldey]

Ahhh omg i just found your blog and lowkey stayed up until 2am reading everything you have. I'm very impressed with your work and can't wait for more updates.

For liag, i can't wait to see what happens in the next chapter. I wonder what the jeons kingdom is like since the mc has never seen it for herself and what events may start to unfold. I also love jungkooks characterization right now very mysterious and the meaning of the necklace!! Like he had said it belongs in the jeon family yet he gave it to her...so im like is he courting her? Also, if they did get married who would be the next in line for whichever kingdom the other leaves unless they merge kingdoms...?

For tdmoe, the world building is so amazing it just makes me want to learn more about the culture / history as how this tribe has come to have these ideals, etc. Although, i did have a question about the blood on their heads, everyone kept telling the mc not to touch it like does it eventually wash off? is there a time limit to keep it on? And did jungkook still have the blood on his head?

Hi!!

First off, thank you so much for taking your time and sending this message; it’s so wholesome I’m melting 🥹

LIAG; to be fair, MC isn’t the only one who hasn’t seen the Jeon Kingdom, most people haven’t been there (might I add, for a reason 🫣), ha, I can confirm it is going to be interesting.

MC will have a whiplash of how different both Kingdoms are, we can tell as much by comparing both rulers or even JK and MC. Here's a lil snippet:

After 12 hours of traveling, you finally neared his palace. But the closer you get, the more uncomfortable you feel; not a soul is present in the streets, mountains casting dark shadows over the roads.

Felix sits glued to the window, for him, everything is just as new as it is to you. Although it is late, the vacant streets make you feel unwelcomed; memories of how other countries awaited you in the middle of the night, even just to see a glimpse of your face.

Uuu, the necklace!! Ima just say that it plays a significant role, ahem, khm, a bit hard to name it ‘courting’, but we’ll see the reasoning behind it in the next chapter

Hard to comment about marriage, as MC has very noticeably drawn boundaries between her and JK; she’s not interested in him romantically. This is a heavy subject, MC’s Kingdom is very cold to JK’s, it took years for them to even be okay with him. They fought a war with them for years, so many lives were lost, so a sudden marriage between both would definitely cause a backlash from her people (especially the older generation, wouldn’t be surprise if the younger generation were to idolise them into the ‘perfect love story’).

Also, MC’s father was very clear saying he wants MC as far away from JK, so he’d def disapprove of the marriage. In his eyes it would be a betrayal towards him and their Kingdom, so if MC were to go through with it, she’d have to abdicate the throne 🤷🏼‍♀️

TDMOE; yep, JK didn’t wash off the mark! For him it holds more significance than for MC, so in his eyes he’d be disrespecting her if he was to wash it off (that goes both ways, but if MC was to wash it off, he’d choose to believe she simply doesn’t know the meaning behind it or that it was accidental).

There’s not really a time frame for how long it’s supposed to be kept, but especially men are very proud to wear it if that makes sense, so they’d keep it for as long as possible

Thank you for the ask hun, best wishes!! ☺️